6-12 Yrs Old

This age group is an exciting time in a child’s dental career.  Around age 6, children begin to lose their first “baby tooth.”  In visits to our office during this age, we spend time reviewing these changes with parents and patients. Most children lose 8 teeth between the ages of 5-8 (on average).  These include the upper and lower incisors.  Around this age, children acquire their first set of permanent molars.  The entire set of “baby teeth” generally fall out by the age of 12.  During routine check-ups in our office, the doctors will evaluate the health and development of the new teeth and talk about the possibility of dental sealants, when indicated.

During this age we will also encourage starting our child patients to become a little more independent with home care. Most children have the coordination to adequately brush their own teeth by around age 8 (when they can tie their own shoes.)  Every child masters this in their own time, and we will help with easing your child into this independence, while ensuring their mouth stays clean and healthy!

We also look more closely at jaw structure and potential orthodontic concerns during this age. Orthodontic referrals are made based on the structure and function of your child’s jaws, not just straight or crooked teeth.  The timing of orthodontic needs is different for every child, and our doctors will be paying close attention to this as your child grows.